Northmoor Library in Oldham shortlisted for Library of the Year 2026

Northmoor Library in Coldhurst has made it to the final round of the Library of the Year 2026 awards, putting Oldham on the national map for community spaces. The library on Chadderton Way has been named both a North England regional finalist and country finalist, competing against eight other libraries from across the north.

The library's transformation came after receiving £168,000 from Arts Council England in 2024, with Oldham Council adding £17,000 to the project. The funding paid for a new roof, doors, windows, and energy efficiency improvements, plus a dedicated study space and more computers for public use.

Library staff announced the news on Facebook, calling Northmoor 'our little gem in Coldhurst' and describing it as 'a truly inclusive community space where everyone is guaranteed a warm welcome.' They encourage residents who haven't visited yet to 'come down and see what the fuss is about'-whether to relax, read, spend time with children, or bring a laptop to work.

The awards, organised by The Bookseller as part of the British Book Awards, aim to recognise libraries that serve as vital community hubs. Northmoor now faces competition from libraries in Hull, Bradford, Darlington, Waudby, Newcastle, Stockport, Redcar, and North Yorkshire, with winners announced on March 12.